Transfer updates on Stones, Pedro, Houghton and Bamford

Good morning Blues and welcome to Tuesday’s transfer news update from CFCnet, where we take a look at the latest potential arrivals, departures and done deals at Stamford Bridge this summer.

First up, it’s emerged publicly that Everton and England defender John Stones is the clubs main priority this window having already confirmed a £20 million offer has been rejected.

Jose Mourinho has stated that they will be moving back in with a bigger offer, much to the bemusement of Everton Manager Roberto Martinez, who is merely annoyed at the reality here of losing his best player.

The latest on this is that Chelsea have apparently made that second offer of £26 million, putting the ball in the court of the Goodison club. I’m also hearing that Stones himself is keen on the move, which could be the pivotal part of this saga.

Meanwhile, it’s becoming apparent that the attacking midfielder position is an area we will not be making reinforcements in, with Mourinho confirming that we already have plenty of bodies in that role even including both Victor Moses and Bertrand Traore in that – suggesting they will both be in the squad this term. So we can pretty much rule out the speculation surrounding Pedro, who may well end up at Manchester United.

It’s clear that the defence is the focus of any new additions with Filipe Luis set to leave and younger blood needed to come in and challenge the 30 somethings. However, Mourinho has often said that we won’t be signing a player and then it turns around on it’s head and the player signs. This is also used as a buying tactic, making it appear that you’re not interested so that the price doesn’t inflate or you don’t give away too many plans to the opposition. So don’t be surprised if we do see a U-turn on his latest comments, there could be more arrivals.

Finally, two confirmed loan moves and great news for both players and the club. Patrick Bamford will get that Premier League experience needed in order to complete his development and hopefully integrate in to the Chelsea squad next season, by joining Crystal Palace on loan.

And Chelsea youth player Jordan Houghton, who is highly thought of in the club, has joined League One side Gillingham on loan until January 2016. Again, a great move for him to experience adults professional football and a key part of his development.

That’s it for now Blues, but please remember to follow my Twitter here for the latest updates @cfcneteditor